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Discontinuation Reflects Challenges in Competitive Commercial Drone Market Sony Group Corporation recently announced it will discontinue the Airpeak S1 drone and related accessories by March 31, 2025, due to “changes in the business environment.” The Airpeak line aimed to combine Sony’s camera expertise with high-performance drone technology but faced stiff competition from established brands. Discontinuation […]
Both DJI Neo vs. DJI Mini 4K are two excellent drones from drone-making powerhouse DJI. They’re both super affordable, the DJI Neo priced at $199 and the Mini 4K at $299. Both have excellent cameras, and are easy to fly.
But choosing the right entry-level drone can make or break your experience. And while both drones are products I’d recommend in general, I wouldn’t necessarily recommend both for all use cases, as both are actually extremely different in terms of their power output and how you fly them.
Now I’ll save you a click and give you the tl;dr:
If you’re looking for a simple, safe, and easy-to-fly drone for close-up shots: Go with the DJI Neo.
If you want a more traditional drone with longer flight times and more range: Go with the DJI Mini 4K.
But what does that mean in practice? I’ve extensively reviewed both drones, and think they’re both great, albeit for very different types of people and situations. So with that, here’s a breakdown of the DJI Neo vs. DJI Mini 4K, so you can know which drone is best for you:
DJI Neo vs. DJI Mini 4K: key differences (and how to choose)
So what does all that mean in practice? Read on to my comparison of the DJI Neo vs. DJI Mini 4K:
Key differences between the DJI Neo vs. DJI Mini 4K
1. Price
The DJI Neo retails for $199, making it the cheapest DJI drone you can buy right now.
For just $100 more, though, you can get the DJI Mini 4K, which at $299 adds meaningful upgrades like a controller, longer battery life, and expanded range. While the $100 difference may seem steep as a percentage, it could be worth it for the added capabilities.
What’s the price with controller?
The DJI RC-N2.
Especially noticeable in that price difference is the lack of controller. For Neo pilots who are fine with just the palm takeoff into programmed flight modes, or controller it manually via the app, then you can budget simply the $199 price tag. But if you think you’d like to upgrade to a controller, budget more. The DJI Neo is currently compatible with the DJI RC 2, DJI RC-N2, and DJI RC-N3 controllers.
The DJI RC-N2 is not currently for sale (unless you can find it used or through a third-party). Otherwise your cheapest option is the DJI RC-N3 remote controller, which retails for $129. The $129 RC-N3 plus $199 Neo actually puts you at $328 — about $30 more than the DJI Mini 4K. If you demand a controller, then that actually makes the DJI Mini 4K the cheapest DJI drone.
Winner: DJI Neo
Winner (with controller): DJI Mini 4K
2. Flight time
One of the most significant differences is flight time. The DJI Neo tops out at 18 minutes, whereas the Mini 4K can fly up to 31 minutes. For anyone who needs extra time to set up shots or take multiple takes, that extra 13 minutes can be crucial.
Winner: DJI Mini 4K
3. Control and range
With its easy hand-launch, WiFi-based phone control, the DJI Neo is designed for simplicity. However, this simplicity limits its range, and WiFi-based control may feel limited if you’re trying to fly higher or farther. The DJI Mini 4K’s dedicated controller brings a stronger signal and extended range, giving you more room to explore and capture sweeping shots from farther away.
Winner: DJI Mini 4K
4. Learning Curve
The DJI Neo’s hand-launch style and built-in prop guards make it extremely approachable—ideal for anyone nervous about flying. The Mini 4K requires a bit more confidence, as it uses a traditional takeoff with a full controller, but it’s still manageable for beginners who want a more “pilot-like” experience.
Watch how the unique, hand-launch style of the DJI Neo works in practice, via my first-ever drone flight:
Winner: DJI Neo
DJI Neo vs. DJI Mini 4K: where each drone excels
Both drones have their pros and cons. Here’s where each excels:
The DJI Neo
The DJI Neo drone. (Photo by Sally French)
The DJI Neo shines in scenarios where quick, close-up shots are all you need. It’s ideal for vloggers or Instagrammers who want a few aerial shots. Imagine it floating around as you trick-or-treat, or it giving you a cool top-down view of a picnic. With its basic follow-me function, it’s like a selfie cam that hovers close.
But don’t expect a powerful tracking feature. This isn’t a true follow-me drone. And it definitely isn’t the drone for mountain bikers or high-speed runners. It’s best for easy, fun shots at close range.
If you’re looking for an easy, hands-free way to get a few cool aerial shots without diving deep into the world of drone piloting, then DJI Neo is right up your alley. No controller needed, just launch from your hand. Its built-in prop guards, toy-like feel, and straightforward WiFi-based control make it feel safe and manageable, even around kids.
DJI Mini 4K
The DJI Mini 4K
The DJI Mini 4K brings greater freedom and flexibility to capture bigger, bolder shots. If you envision yourself flying a bit higher and wider—like recording a major event from above or capturing a scenic view—the Mini 4K can deliver. With extended flight time and a stronger controller connection, it’s the better choice if you want to try some “real” drone piloting.
For those who want a bit more—like extended range, altitude, and a longer flight time—the DJI Mini 4K is for you. This is for the aspiring “drone person” who wants to experiment with real piloting skills and take higher, more expansive shots before upgrading to perhaps a better camera drone, like the DJI Mini 4 Pro. It’s a bit pricier, but with its dedicated controller and double the flight time relative to the DJI Neo, the Mini 4K gives you room to explore and grow your piloting skills.
How to pick between the DJI Neo vs. DJI Mini 4K
If you’re after a simple, safe, hands-off way to get unique angles without worrying about piloting, the DJI Neo is a great choice. It’s beginner-friendly and feels safe enough to fly around kids, making it a fun tool for casual shots.
If you’re ready for a more robust drone experience, with room to explore and grow your skills, go for theDJI Mini 4K. It’s a bit pricier, but the extra flight time, extended range, and traditional controls are well worth it for anyone looking to embrace the world of drones.
Whether you’re looking for an easy, toy-like experience or a gateway into the world of drone flying, DJI’s got you covered with these two solid options. Happy flying!
The B-21 Raider is set to reshape U.S. air strategy, potentially replacing not only older bombers but also the role of manned fighters. With advancing A2/AD threats, the B-21 may become a stealthy “mothership” for drones, able to project power while leveraging its versatility in a system of systems approach. This shift reflects a move […]
